How do I use template specialization in C++?

How do I use template specialization in C++?

Template specialization allows you to define a specific implementation of a template for a particular type. Would you like an example?

Yes, please provide an example of template specialization.

Sure! Here's a simple example:

#include <iostream>

template <typename T>
class Calculator {
public:
    T add(T a, T b) { return a + b; }
};

// Specialization for type 'int'
template <> 
class Calculator<int> {
public:
    int add(int a, int b) { return a + b + 1; } // Adds 1 to the result
};

int main() {
    Calculator<double> calcDouble;
    std::cout << "Double: " << calcDouble.add(1.5, 2.5) << std::endl;
    Calculator<int> calcInt;
    std::cout << "Int: " << calcInt.add(1, 2) << std::endl;
    return 0;
}

This code shows a general template and a specialized version for integers.

What are the benefits of using template specialization?

Template specialization allows for optimized code for specific types, enabling better performance and tailored behavior.

Can you explain the difference between full and partial specialization?

Full specialization provides a complete implementation for a specific type, while partial specialization allows for variations based on certain template parameters.